Cream Cheese Treats
Cream Cheese Treats are delicate, sweet cookies filled with preserves, featuring a rich cream cheese and buttery flavor, perfect for parties or as a delightful snack.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Beat the cream cheese and butter together until well blended.
- Add the flour and lemon juice; mix well.
- Form the dough into four balls of equal size; wrap in waxed paper and refrigerate until firm.
- Roll out one dough ball at a time between two sheets of waxed paper to 1/4-inch thickness.
- Cut out cookies using a 2 1/2-inch round scalloped-edge cookie cutter or plain cutter.
- Place cookies on ungreased baking sheets.
- On one side of each cookie, cut out a 1-inch wide heart shape with a cookie cutter 1/4-inch from the edge (optional).
- Place a small amount of preserves on the other side of each cookie.
- Fold the cookie in half and press the edges together to seal.
- Bake in a preheated 375°F oven for 15 to 20 minutes or until slightly puffed and just beginning to brown.
- Cool slightly before removing from the baking sheets.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of vanilla extract to the dough. If you don't have unsalted butter, you can use salted butter; just reduce the added salt in the recipe. You can also experiment with different fruit preserves based on your preference, such as raspberry or peach. Ensure the cream cheese is at room temperature for easier mixing.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these delightful treats with a cup of tea or coffee for a perfect afternoon snack. They also pair beautifully with Mama Rains' Tea Cakes for a sweet dessert platter. Add fresh fruit on the side for a refreshing contrast, or enjoy them as a light dessert after a meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Cream Cheese Treats in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, keep them in the refrigerator for up to a week. To reheat, warm them in the oven at 350°F for about 5 minutes, just until they are slightly warm and soft again.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cream Cheese Treats contains roughly 34 calories, with 1g protein, 1g carbohydrates, and 3g fat.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough a day in advance. After forming the balls, wrap them tightly in waxed paper and refrigerate. When you're ready to bake, simply roll out the dough and proceed with the recipe as directed.
What other flavors can I use for the preserves?
You can use any fruit preserves you like, such as raspberry, peach, or even a citrus marmalade. Just ensure the preserves are thick enough to hold when baked, as runny ones may seep out during the folding process.
How do I know when the cookies are done baking?
The cookies are done when they are slightly puffed and just beginning to turn golden brown around the edges. Keep an eye on them, as baking times can vary slightly depending on your oven.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).